New Zealand is introducing two new seasonal work visas, the GWSV and PSV, from December 2025. Find out who can use these visas, what requirements and positions are covered, and how the changes will affect workers and employers in the agriculture, tourism and food industries.

New Zealand continues to adapt its immigration policy, and from December 2025 the country will introduce two new seasonal work visas - the Global Seasonal Worker Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV). The aim of these innovations is to support employers during periods of high demand for seasonal workers and ensure that vacancies in the agriculture, tourism and food industries are effectively filled. Citizens of any country in the world can obtain a permit, including representatives of Myanmar, Kyrgyzstan and Kenya.

We will tell you about the main changes for seasonal workers in New Zealand below.

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Why is it important for New Zealand to have a seasonal work visa?

Seasonal work has always been an important element of the New Zealand economy. Harvesting, caring for animals, processing seafood, sightseeing tours and winter sports - all of which require extra hands at certain times of the year. Until now, existing visas have not always been able to meet peak demand quickly, and bureaucracy and lengthy checks have made the process difficult for employers. The new visas aim to address these issues and create a more flexible system.

Global Seasonal Worker Visa (GWSV)

The GWSV is designed for highly skilled seasonal workers who already have experience in relevant fields. The visa is valid for up to three years, allowing foreign workers to return to seasonal work over several years, maintaining job stability.

Key GWSV requirements

- At least 3 seasons of relevant work in the last 6 years.

- At least 3 months of the year must be spent outside New Zealand.

- No mandatory English language or labour market tests.

- Possibility of switching to other visa types if eligible.

Examples of GWSV positions

- Mobile agricultural plant operators;

- Sheep and other animal pregnancy specialists;

- Chairlift and snowmobile operators;

- Mountain, glacier and rafting guides;

- Winemakers and senior cellar masters;

- Winter sports and equipment instructors;

- Meat inspectors, shearers, butchers.

The GWSV allows employers to quickly recruit experienced workers without lengthy vetting and bureaucratic hurdles.

Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)

The PSV is designed for entry-level positions that need to be filled during peak seasons. This visa is valid for up to seven months, after which the employee must spend four months outside New Zealand before reapplying.

Key PSV requirements

- Minimum of one season of experience within the last three years.

- Full health insurance required.

- Employers must cooperate with the Department of Labour and Revenue or obtain approval.

Examples of PSV jobs

- Mussel and Oyster Farm Workers;

- Milkmaids and Calf Raisers;

- Foresters;

- Butchers, Butchers, Meat Processing Workers;

- Wool and Seafood Processors;

- Cellar Hand Winemakers.

PSV provides a short-term opportunity to combine work and travel, allowing workers to gain experience in New Zealand and support the country’s seasonal economy.

What do the two types of seasonal work visas in New Zealand have in common?

Whether it’s a GWSV or a PSV, there are a few key points:

- Workers cannot sponsor family to move;

- Change of employer is only possible within one type of visa;

- Temporary work rights are maintained while the seasonal visa application is being processed;

- these visas do not open the way to permanent residence - they are designed for short-term seasonal needs.

The government clearly emphasizes that the system is designed for real seasonal work. Immigration officers will check the terms of contracts, seasonal cycles and job responsibilities to prevent abuse.

Why is approval of a seasonal work visa important for workers and employers in New Zealand?

For foreign workers, the new visas open up a unique opportunity to combine work and life in New Zealand. They allow you to gain international experience, build relationships with employers and enjoy the country's natural beauty and culture.

For employers, this is a significant relief: bureaucratic barriers are reduced, the time to recruit qualified workers is reduced, and seasonal processes are ensured.

The new seasonal GWSV and PSV visas are a kind of "point adaptation" of New Zealand's migration policy: the country retains control over long-term immigration, but at the same time effectively responds to the real needs of the economy.

Need help with applying for a seasonal work visa in New Zealand?

Immigration lawyers will help you prepare all the documents correctly, avoid mistakes in the application and increase your chances of quickly obtaining a visa. They also advise employers on the requirements for GWSV and PSV, ensuring the legality and efficiency of the recruitment process. Turning to professionals saves time and guarantees peace of mind when preparing for work in New Zealand.

Reminder! In 2025, Italy increases the number of seasonal work visas to 165,000. We have already talked about the new rules for seasonal workers, changes in procedures, application deadlines and visa costs.

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